Trent seeks graduates with ambitions

Entrepreneurs are being offered the chance to translate their ideas into a successful enterprise thanks to a programme launched by Nottingham Trent University.

The university is seeking 25 East Midlands-based graduates with ambition and a strong business concept to join the Headstart programme, designed to deliver the support and advice needed to get a business started.

Headstart is open to graduates from any university and runs for ten weeks full time. As well as developing their entrepreneurial skills, those taking part will have the opportunity to gain postgraduate qualifications.

Clients of Headstart will receive guidance on marketing; negotiating and finance; project planning; design and research; and venture planning.

Headstart is the first initiative to be launched by The Hive, a purpose-designed enterprise development centre on Nottingham Trent's city campus due to open this autumn.

The Hive will offer a rigorous analysis of the business proposition, the risks and opportunities involved, the potential market, key competitors and intellectual property rights. The centre, backed by European funding, plans to generate high-growth ventures and act to stimulate economic prosperity in the region.

David Rae, head of enterprise at The Hive, said: "Many enthusiastic graduates leave university with exciting ideas for business ventures but they may be discouraged if they don't have the skills, contacts or confidence to make it happen.

"Our aim is to ensure they learn how to start businesses that have the best chance to survive and grow. Existing businesses, be they small or large, also have a lot to gain by being involved."

The Hive brings together knowledge, opportunities and technological resources from many different sources.

It will provide services not only for graduates on the Headstart programme but also for experienced managers and other professionals, corporate businesses, and small and growing firms.

The Hive will act as a matchmaker for entrepreneurs seeking investors and venture capital funding.

It will also facilitate access to the full range of specialist skills and research expertise within the university.

Initially, The Hive will include seven incubator "pods" for innovators who require workspace and facilities to get their businesses off the ground.

Other resources include an e-commerce facility with access to specialist internet expertise.

Details: 0115 848 4354.